| Country of Origin | France |
| Region | Nouvelle-Aquitaine |
| Classification | Fresh cheese, rindless |
| Milk | Raw or pasteurized cow’s milk, sheep’s milk in Jonchée d’Aunis, goat’s milk in Niort |
| Weight | 4.25 to 4.5 oz (120 to 130 g) |
| Length | 8 inches (20 cm) |
| Thickness | 1.125 to 1.5 inches (3 to 4 cm) |
| Fat content | 8% |
| Calories | 400 calories / 100 g |
| Aroma | Fresh, lactic, some selections are scented with bitter almond |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, hint of sourness |
| Sweet Pairing | Honey, jam, coulis (strawberry, raspberry, blackberry) |
| Herbs pairing | Mint leaves, parsley, chives, garlic |
| Beverage pairing | Aperitifs, pineau des Charentes, cognac |
| Texture (outer layer) | Firm |
| Texture (inner layer) | Soft, creamy |
| Shape | Stretched, elongated |
| History | Dated back to medieval times |
| Color | White |
Jonchée is a classic cheese dated back to the Middle Age and was often served at large banquets in the court of Charles VII in the 15th century.
This cheese has an elongated shape and is wrapped in a cattail-leaf casing (either natural or plastic).
It must be consumed within 24 hours of its production.
To date, there are very few producers of Jonchée, and all are located within a triangle of the towns of Rochefort, Royan, and La Rochelle.
The milk curdles in 20 minutes and produces a fresh cheese that is particularly sweet, creamy, and milk (some selections are scented with bitter almond).
How to Enjoy Jonchée (PAIRING)
Today, Jonchée is often served as a dessert along with honey or jam. During summer time, it is frequently paired with berries-made coulis.
It goes well with sprinkle of mint leaves and other herbs such as parsley and chives too.
For beverages, locals have suggested that Aperitifs, pineau des Charentes and cognac are your best options
Our favorite organic honey to pair with Jonchée:
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More Cheeses from France:
- Brousse du Rove
- Bleu des Causses
- Bleu du Vercors-Sassenage
- Bleu de Chèvre
- Baguette Laonnaise
- Bergues
- Bethmale
Last update on 2023-06-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API